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Fine and Performing Arts dean to step down

Author: Currently

Posted: November 19, 2012

Barbara Sestak has announced that she will step down as dean of the School of Fine and Performing Arts at the end of this academic year. Sestak, dean for the past six years and an architecture faculty member since 1982, plans to remain at the University.

"Portland State is grateful to Barbara for the leadership she has provided the school and all she has done for the University," said Provost Sona Andrews. “I look forward to many opportunities for all of us to thank Barbara and celebrate her accomplishments."

A search for a new dean will be held in consultation with the school's faculty and staff, said Andrews. However, Sestak has agreed to remain as dean through the summer if a replacement is not in place before then.

During Sestak's tenure as dean of the School of Fine and Performing Art, enrollment in the school grew by more than 36 percent and new professional degrees and majors in all four departments were created, including the Master of Architecture and the Film and Arts Studies majors. She also oversaw the extensive renovation of Shattuck and Lincoln halls, which achieved LEED Gold and Platinum certification. In the past few years, the school has secured significant endowed gifts and established a funded research program.

Prior to becoming dean, Sestak was the associate vice provost for Sponsored Research at Portland State from 2000 to 2005; chair of the Department of Architecture from 1995 to 98; and both associate dean and interim dean for the School of Fine and Performing Arts from 1995 to 1997.